Van Gaal subject of criticism from his own players
Manchester United boss Louis Van Gaal was labelled ‘clueless’ by his own players after the Red Devils’ 3-0 defeat to Tottenham on Sunday.
The former Barcelona and Holland boss is known for being a ‘tough cookie’, a ‘disciplinarian’ and particularly demanding. But ‘clueless’ is the word United’s players are using at the minute.
Van Gaal treated 18-year-old Marcus Rashford poorly on Sunday, according to the players, and introduced winger Ashley Young in a central role, rather than natural replacement, 13-goal forward Anthony Martial.
A source from The Sun said: “They blamed it all on the manager. You could hear everything. They don’t seem to have much time for him.”
Players left frustrated
United’s squad are reportedly becoming frustrated with being handed the blame for their defeats, rather than Van Gaal taking a portion of the blame for his own decisions.
And that dressing room revolt could force the Dutchman out of Old Trafford, with Jose Mourinho eagerly waiting in the wings to take over the managerial hot seat.
The former Chelsea boss has refused to confirm that United are interested in his services, or that he will join the club this summer. But further criticism from Van Gaal on Sunday, aimed at his defence, may make the atmosphere at Old Trafford untenable.
“The miscommunication in our centre defence turned the match, I think,” Van Gaal said, after goals from Dele Alli, Toby Alderweireld and Erik Lamela secured victory for title-chasing Tottenham.
“And the second goal was also a goal in a set-play.
“Alderweireld scored and we knew in advance he is a dangerous header, so everything was well organised but he had a wonderful header, and within five minutes they scored the third goal and the game’s over.”
Losing their faith
Victor Valdes was the first to feel the effects of Van Gaal’s ways, leaving the club on loan in January, after just two appearances for the club, and having a fall-out with the manager, after refusing to feature in a United reserve game.
And the board will wary that Van Gaal could cause further players to leave Old Trafford, with it clear that players are starting to lose faith in the 64-year-old.
Reports have suggested that Ajax could appoint Van Gaal as the head of their academy, if he is sacked this summer.
